Expanding Your Horizons: Working Remotely From Another Country

Can I work remotely from another country while employed full-time in Canada?

Yes, it is absolutely possible to work remotely from another country while still being employed full-time with your current company in Canada. This arrangement can offer you the flexibility to live and work in different parts of the world, potentially enhancing your quality of life while maintaining your job security.

Why Would You Want to Work Remotely Abroad?

There are numerous reasons why you might be interested in working remotely from the United Kingdom (UK) while employed in Canada. For instance, you might want to:

Improve Quality of Life: The UK and Canada both offer unique cultural experiences and lifestyle benefits. Relocating to the UK could provide access to longer daylight hours, increased cultural activities, and a different pace of life.Enjoy Family Time: With remote work, the commute is eliminated, potentially allowing you to spend more time with family, explore new cities, and engage in local attractions.Pursue Other Career Opportunities: You may find that your current position in Canada doesn’t align with your long-term career goals. Working remotely from the UK could offer you the opportunity to pursue other business opportunities or roles within your industry.

Meeting UK Immigration Laws for Remote Work

However, working remotely from the UK while employed in Canada is not without its challenges. It is essential to comply with UK immigration laws. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Business Model and Company Regulations

Your current employer in Canada must have a business model that supports remote work. If your company is based in the UK, it must prove that your remote work from the UK complies with the UK’s self-employment or company rules. It’s crucial to ensure that the company has the necessary processes and policies in place to support this arrangement.

2. Visa Requirements

Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to secure a UK visa if your work assignment is not permanent. The key visa options for remote workers include:

UK Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Visa: If your current company has an office in the UK, you can apply for an ICT visa which allows transfer of employees from abroad. The criteria include proving that the role is outside of the UK, and the skills and expertise in the role are unique and are not available in the UK.Talent Visa: For highly skilled individuals, a Talent Visa might be more suitable. This visa is for individuals with a minimum of ￡36,090 per annum, or for individuals whose role and salary meet the criteria for the Specialist Sports Visa or the Minister of Religion Visa.

3. Demonstrating Residency

To avoid being considered a tax exile, you must be able to demonstrate a strong connection to the UK. This can include:

Bank Accounts, Property, or Investments in the UK: Owning or having an account in the UK can demonstrate a home in the country.UK Friends and Family: Having close relationships and ties to the UK can support your application.Activity in the UK: Regular UK-based activities, such as attending business meetings or conferences, can also help.

Successfully Navigating the Process

To make your transition as smooth as possible, here are some steps to consider:

1. Early Communication with Your Employer

Initiate a conversation with your employer early in the process and provide them with detailed information about your plans. Collaborate with the HR department to ensure that your remote work arrangement is feasible and compliant with all legal and employment terms.

2. Get Financial Advice

Consider seeking advice from a tax professional to understand the implications of working remotely. This can help you navigate potential discrepancies in tax regulations and ensure you remain compliant with both Canadian and UK laws.

3. Seek Legal Advice

Consult with legal professionals who specialize in immigration and employment law. They can provide personalized guidance and help you navigate the complexities of working remotely.

Conclusion

Working remotely from another country can be an exciting opportunity. By taking the necessary steps to comply with UK immigration laws and collaborating closely with your employer, you can successfully navigate this arrangement and continue thriving in your career.